Health officials continue to record a high number of Influenza-like illnesses (ILI) with the latest surveillance data issued by the Ministry of Health showing cases still in double digits.

The Ministry's Syndromic Surveillance & COVID-19 Update, which was prepared by the National Health Surveillance & IHR Division, was released to the local media on Monday.

The data showed that for week 17 covering 24 April 2023 to 30 April 2023, the total number of cases recorded totaled 1104 with a moving average of 2141 and a threshold of 4281. 

According to the MOH summary of the cases, the reported ILI cases are still below the threshold but the Ministry recommends the practice of face masks wearing. 

"However, even though the threshold has not exceeded, the Ministry of Health still highly recommends the general public to continue the practice of preventative measures such as – wearing of masks especially when coughing and runny nose, hand hygiene, and avoiding large gatherings without masks. If you are feeling ill with flu-like symptoms, please see a nurse or doctor, stay home, and take medication as prescribed."

Acute respiratory infection has a history of fever or measured fever of ≥ 38 C° and cough which onsets within the last 10 days. 

As for Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI), which is the other disease that is currently under the Ministry's surveillance, the M.O.H. said a total of 19 cases were recorded between 24 April 2023 and 30 April 2023 with a moving average of 35.5, and the threshold linked to two cases.

According to the Ministry, the SARI cases reported have been investigated with no known links identified. 

"Therefore, it does not meet the definition exceeding the threshold. The majority of the SARI cases reported are people diagnosed with unresolved or severe pneumonia. 

"The public is strongly advised to continue to practice preventative measures as mentioned above such as wearing of masks, hand hygiene and avoid crowded places."